Former Apple executive, Tony Fadell, recently introduced the second-iteration of his company’s Nest Learning Thermostat. The second-generation thermostat boasts features such as new hardware and software, wider compatibility, more apps and a refreshed design. The company is even announced that it is rolling out version 3.0 of its Nest software for its existing owners along with the debut of the second-generation Nest.

The new version of the Nest brings a completely revamped wiring layout with compatibility for two stage cooling and dual fuel systems, emergency heat, and whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers. The unit’s face is now a one-piece “lens,” which gets rid of the original device’s sensor grill. Features carried over from the first generation products include Wi-Fi connectivity, programmable functions based on usage patterns and remote control over wireless via supported apps. Along with the new software update, if you haven’t bought one already, the device looks quite tempting to purchase.

For those of you who didn't already know, Tony Fadell is also known as the “grandfather of the iPod” and he is the one who designed the new Nest with an aluminum enclosure and simple interface. Those who are interested in getting the second-generation Nest Learning Thermostat, can pre-order through the company’s online store for a price of $249.

What if you leave the thermostat on 76 all the time and pretty much never change it? Is there any point to having one of these in that case?

Reason being that my wife is at home most of the day with our son, so there is almost always someone in the house, which is why we don't really have our programmable 'stat set to adjust the temperature throughout the day.